Cape Cornwall Surgery

Tel: 01736 788306

Urinary incontinence is common, especially in women. It can occur at any age. As many as 1 in 5 women over the age of 40 have some degree of urinary incontinence.

Stress incontinence is the most common form. It occurs when the pressure in the bladder becomes too great for the bladder outlet to withstand. It usually occurs because the pelvic floor muscles which support the bladder outlet are weakened. Urine tends to leak most when you cough, laugh, or when you exercise (such as jump or run).

Urge incontinence (unstable or overactive bladder) is the second commonest cause. This is when you get an urgent desire to pass urine.

Prevention of Bladder Problems

Some Causes

• Infection
• Constipation
• Some medicines
• Not drinking enough fluids
• Drinking large quantities of caffeine in coffee and cola
• Drinking too much alcohol or fizzy drinks

Keeping Your Bladder Healthy

1. Avoid getting constipated – eat a healthy diet, high in fibre (see fibre chart under Constipation). When the bowel does not empty it swells up and pushes on the bladder.
2. Practice pelvic floor exercises each day
3. Keep a healthy fluid intake - It is important to drink
   1.5 – 2 Litres of fluid every day. If you drink less than this, try to increase the amount gradually e.g. an extra glass of water each day.
   Drink plain water, fruit juice, cordials, fruit or herbal tea.
   Reducing the amount of fluid you drink makes your urine more concentrated and can worsen bladder problems.
   Drinks containing caffeine, alcohol and artificial sweeteners can cause irritation of the bladder and increase symptoms of urgency and incontinence.